Rat FAQute

05/01/2008

This section covers frequently asked questions about supplies you might want to buy for your new rat-friends, as well as advice when picking up your new buddies.
(I'm still working on updating... Please forgive the time it's taking.)

Question 1: What kind of cage should I get my ratties?

There are many very good cages out there, some might be better than others. Size seems to matter most. You want to make sure your cage is not too small for your ratties.

In the following pictures, we find a cage that is WAY too small for the number of rats in it!!**

** The girls put themselves into this container and were having loads of fun.

Here is a list of possible cages:

Coast Cages -- These can be bought for a decent price on eBay or at Petco. They don't rust like some cages, but are heavier. You can order them without wheels. The wheels may not be safe for young rats.

This is the 5-story rat mansion

Martin's Cages -- These can be ordered online and come in a variety of sizes. The Ruud is huge, but there is a design flaw where one ladder is attached. Rats are able to stick their head through the door under the ladder. They may have changed this flaw.
The best choice is powder-coated Martin's, as it is easier to clean. This is the type of cage I use for my girls.

This is a Rat Skyscraper (R-695)

Cages from Petsmart -- Petsmart sells a brand of cage that comes with metal trays. The wire is white on the outside. These are nice cages and seem easy to clean. I have noticed a little rusting, but they are powder-coated. You have to be careful for little feet. They might get caught under the edges where the cage meets the pan.

These are two Petsmart cages.

Other Cages -- I also use other cages as nurseries. They tend to be one level and have tops that do not sit in the pan. These are Presidents brand and can be found at some local pet stores.

Feel free to provide your cage choices at packageratz@gmail.com

Question 2: Now, I have my cage, how do I keep it from being smelly?

Sometimes it seems like soap and water just aren't doing the trick of getting rid of that rattie smell. I can't stand smelly things, so I went in search of a safe product that neutralizes and breaks down odor.

This is what I found:

These products are both available online or at local pet stores (online is cheaper). I tend to dilute the Critter Fresh™ by putting it in the Clean Cage™ bottle and adding water. You simply spray it on your cage, let it sit, and rinse it off. It also can break down built-on urine if your ratties spray the wall and works on floors.

Question 3: What kind of bedding should I use?

Need I say anything else?

Yeah, I suppose so. I prefer Aspen bedding to Carefresh™, though they both are fine for the ratties. The key is NO PINE OR CEDAR. Do not trust beddings from pet stores that say safe for rats and then don't say what type of litter it is.

Question 4: Do ratties need a special place to sleep?

Ratties love to have places to hide and to sleep. There are several choices for sleeping arrangements, but don't be surprised if the cheapest choice is their favorite.

Question 5: Do they need anything to play with? Do rats play??

Yes, of course rats play!! Visit Inside the Package to see some of the Package Rats' toys.

Question 6: Can I litter box train my ratties?

Yes. I will add more info later.

Question 7: Should I take my rats out to play?

Duh!! See Question 5 above. I will also add more info later.

Question 8: My rats are hungry, what should I feed them?

My rats eat Realm mix: a natural, mostly organic blend of grains, nuts and fruit available through Ratz Realm. She will ship food.

The rats also eat Harlan-Teklad Lab Blocks daily, as well as fresh fruits or veggies. The youngsters are supplemented with soy milk.

Question 9: Can I give my ratties treats?

Sometimes, but don't give them too many, too often.

Question 10: Should I give my ratties vitamins?

I do.

This site was last updated 05/01/08

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05/01/2008

This section covers frequently asked questions about supplies you might want to buy for your new rat-friends, as well as advice when picking up your new buddies. (I'm still working on updating... Please forgive the time it's taking.)

This section covers frequently asked questions about supplies you might want to buy for your new rat-friends, as well as advice when picking up your new buddies.
(I'm still working on updating... Please forgive the time it's taking.)